Op26 Twenty-four Etudes (Caprices)

24 Caprices-Etudes, Op. 26
Composed by Theobald Boehm (1794-1881)
For flute solo
Published by Schott

Reprint of Schott’s original edition from 1852 with a preface by Nikolaus Delius

These 24 Studies were specifically written by Boehm from his intimate knowledge of the new flute which was constructed by and named after him. Their purpose was not only to demonstrate that all the 24 keys could be played reliably and smoothly, but also to provide technical exercises precisely in those areas where particular practice was necessary. This primary purpose, which also embraces the development of a good tone, is realized in different musical miniatures (caprices) which demand from the player a well-shaped, musical interpretation.

Boehm’s best known and most important collection of studies has been out of print for a long time in Germany.  With this new edition, B. Schott’s Sohne have responded to the many requests that these classical exercises for the Boehm flute be published again.  They appear in their original form – just as they were published by Schott in 1852.  This “reprint” has received some “cosmetic” alterations purely for the sake of legibility; printing errors have been corrected, and the few additions that have been made are recognizable as such.

Boehm gave very precise directions in some of the studies but hardly any at all in others.  It will often be necessary to take breaths as the musical flow allows, and thus to interrupt long legato slurs without destroying their musical sense.  As far as articulation is concerned, a definite type of articulation for a passage is usually indicated clearly both at the beginning and the end of the passage.

— Nikolaus Delius